Personally, I thought HomeStar was dead. And given our current Congress, it may be, but President Obama brought it up again
last week. Re-emphasizing his commitment to energy efficiency, he said
would push for the initiative as part of his his next proposed budget.

I
know there are a lot mixed industry feelings on HomeStar. Some people
like the idea of incentivizing homeowners for energy efficient upgrades.
Like the tax credits of the past two years, such a program would boost
employment in the short term and help make our country greener and less
dependent on foreign oil in the long term.

Some have questions
about the HomeStar program–saying the rebate program is too bureaucratic
and will favor big players over independents. Many also just think the
government should get out of the incentives business and stop spending
money it doesn't have. Perhaps it's beating a dead horse, but is
HomeStar something the industry should rally around and promote? That's
our poll question of the week.

And, as usual, I'd like to hear
your thoughts on the matter. Obama's Better Building Initiative is
getting some positive response from those in the commercial market. If
you think incentives are good, but don't like HomeStar, how could it be
improved? If, after two years of tax credits, you think the industry
would be better off without any more government programs, let me know
that too. Email me or post a comment.